Fereshteh aims to create new opportunities for refugees like herself to succeed in New Haven, and believes that empowering the mother is crucial for future success of refugee children and the entire community. Through her experience completing a maternal healthcare project in New Haven, she became all too aware of challenges that refugee mothers face, such as one woman unable to read the prescription medicine labels of her child. Fereshteh is familiar with the refugee journey herself, and knows that support can make the difference when you come to this new country.

A Certified Mental Health First Aid Instructor.  Coming from a family of refugees, Hena was born and raised in America but has stayed connected to her Pashtun roots throughout her life. She discovered her passion towards helping refugees through her studies at the University of Connecticut, internships and time spent in Pakistan. Through her experiences, Hena encourages others to learn and continue their education in hopes of achieving their goals. Hena continues to support refugees in Connecticut.